Following in the footsteps of the revolutionary solar powered airplane Solar Impulse, the world’s first renewable energy powered boat, the Energy Observer, is planning a historic round-the-world trip in February 2017.

The Energy Observer will be propelled by energy from the sun, wind and self-generated hydrogen. Its voyage is expected to be completed over six years.

Currently docked on the west coast of France, the Energy Observer began life as a champion racing sailboat before the researchers bought it for the historic renewable energy experiment.

The boat will be equipped with solar panels, wind turbines, and equipment that will enable it to break down water into its hydrogen and oxygen components to be used for fuel. This retrofit will cost approximately $4.72 million.

This ambitious project is a partnership between the CEA-Liten Research Institute and naval architects.